Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used for the Treatment of Diarrheal Diseases in the Hauts-Bassins Region of Burkina Faso

Diarrheal diseases are responsible for significant mortality worldwide. In many regions, local populations rely on traditional medicine, including medicinal plants, to manage these illnesses. This study aimed to identify the medicinal plants used by traditional healers in the Hauts-Bassins region of Burkina Faso for treating diarrheal diseases. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from September 4 to 30, 2020, using a semi-structured questionnaire. Key indicators such as Family Importance Value (FIV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), plant parts used, preparation methods, and routes of administration were assessed. A total of 51 traditional healers were interviewed, 90.20% of whom were male. Most participants were over 60 years of age, and 54.9% were from the village of Bala. Eighteen (18) plant species from eleven (11) botanical families were recorded, with the Annonaceae family being the most frequently cited (35.56%). The most commonly reported species included Annona senegalensis Pers. (35.56%), Euphorbia hirta L. (11.11%), and Erythrina senegalensis DC (8.89%). Roots (44.44%) and trunk bark (20.00%) were the most frequently used plant parts. Decoction (57.78%) and maceration (42.22%) were the primary preparation methods, with oral administration being the most common. Species including Opilia celtidifolia, Erythrina senegalensis, Entada africana, Acacia erythrocalyx, and Combretum nigricans were reported as rare. This study contributes to the preservation of indigenous knowledge and provides a foundation for future pharmacological investigations into antidiarrheal medicinal plants.